08/07/2026
Today, we participated in a valuable training organized by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in collaboration with the Turkana County Assembly. The session provided a deeper understanding of the County Assembly's roles, responsibilities, and the different ways communities can engage with county governance.
A key highlight of the training was learning that refugees are formally recognized as petitioners before the County Assembly. This means refugees have a lawful channel to submit petitions and raise issues affecting their communities through established legal procedures. We also learned that although refugees are not permitted to participate in political activities, they are encouraged to take part in civic engagement and public participation in accordance with the laws of Kenya.
This training strengthened our understanding of civic participation, accountability, and the importance of using legal mechanisms to advocate for the rights and needs of refugee communities.
We sincerely thank UNHCR and the Turkana County Assembly for organizing this informative and empowering initiative. Together, we can build more inclusive, informed, and engaged communities.
(YEDA)